Topics

1

The Green Room / Catchphrases

« on: Nov 05, 2012, 01:54 am »

In my current, and rather short, high school career as a stage manager, I have been accused and accredited with many things. One of which was having a catchphrase.
Out of sincere curiosity and general interest, I propose a competition. Were stage managers accepted publicly as super-heroes, what would the best “Stage Management Super-Hero” catchphrase be?
I’ll start out with what I’ve been told I use the most often:
“It’s on my list!”

2

Students and Novice Stage Managers / Training

« on: Jun 04, 2012, 04:49 am »

Hi.

As the closest thing to a "production stage manager" one can become in this small-town high school, I've been charged with the task of training my Assistant Stage Managers in how things run and how to keep your head during a show.

The last three kids I've trained have left ducking for cover, even those who hit the ground running have had a hard time picking it up. Next season, in theory, I'll have two new ASM's to train.

I suppose my question is, What can I do to teach them?

With the last three, I stressed the importance of being on time, writing the date on EVERYTHING, writing everything down, keeping a complete contact sheet, being early to rehearsals, knowing where everything and everyone is all the time, etc., etc.... And while they all picked up bits and pieces, none of them seem to really grasp the concept of stage management, even on a small scale.

For instance, the boy who ran stage right (where our flyrail is located) burst into tears at the drop of a hat, never had the correct paperwork, and was constantly lost during rehearsals. Whereas the girl who ran stage left (where most of the scenery went on and offstage) was often nowhere to be found, and never responded to headset calls.

I don't quite understand.  I'm certainly not perfect, and in many ways I've simply gotten lucky. However, if anyone has any suggestions as to what I may be doing incorrectly, what I may correct, they would be much appreciated. What do I need to look for in an ASM? Am I simply expecting too much? I'm aware that this is all rather vague, but I would very much appreciate the help.

Thank You
~S

3

Students and Novice Stage Managers / Starting Out

« on: Jun 04, 2012, 04:01 am »

Hello.
I'm one of a small group of stage managers at my high school; however, I am the only one who has made it though several productions with the same director. Soon, I'll enter into my senior year- meaning that I need to find a place to study afterwards.
I want to major in stage management.
So, oh great posters and scanners of the Smnetwork forums:
Where would you suggest as a place of study?
I'm shooting for New York University- but I know that other places are out there, possibly better equipped.
Your suggestions are very much appreciated.
~S